Local projects self and custom build housing projects to benefit from national fund

Published 27 March 2018

Projects from across Scotland are to share £160,000 to take forward self and custom build housing initiatives.

The Self and Custom Build Challenge Fund will support seven pilot projects in Argyll and Bute, Perth and Kinross, Highland, Glasgow and Edinburgh that will look into the feasibility of creating more self or custom built homes.

The projects will consider how the delivery of homes through custom building projects can be expanded; the provision of information and support to those leading their own build, and also explore how more plots can be made available.

Housing minister Kevin Stewart said: “Self and custom build properties are an innovative alternative in housing and I am delighted we have been able to fund these projects, going above and beyond our original aims.

“As the successful projects show, self and custom builds can provide new ways to deliver affordable housing, ensure homes are tailored to individual needs, and regenerate previously disused sites to breathe new life into communities – particularly in remote and rural areas.

“Support for self and custom builds is just one step we are taking to boost the availability of housing, and ensuring that it meets the needs of people and communities across Scotland.”

Applications to the fund opened in December 2017. Originally set at £90,000, a further £70,000 has been made available as a result of the number and strength of applications.